The correspondence in the Thomas collection dates from 1833-1923. Most of the letters relate to Cherokee Indian affairs. Other major topics covered are the Blue Ridge Railroad and the Civil War. Other letters relate to family business affairs, family life, and the effect of the Civil War on the family and western North Carolina. The correspondence includes a photocopy of a letter written by Andrew Jackson in 1841.
The collection also contains letter books which refer to Cherokee affairs, the Blue Ridge Railroad, and personal business. These subjects are also covered in a series of diaries concerning Thomas's day-to-day activities.
The business papers in the collection include land grants, deeds, Indian claims, various legal documents, and business bills and receipts.
The miscellaneous series includes a photocopy of a letter written by General Winfield Scott in 1838 regarding Indian removal; a pamphlet, Explanation of the Rights of the Cherokee, written by Thomas in 1851, and a facsimile of the same pamphlet, reprinted in 1947; a copy of the December 8, 1849, Keowee Courier (Pickens Court House, SC); printed materials relative to Reconstruction, railroads, Cherokee claims, and education in North Carolina in 1855 and 1861. Included with these materials is an account of the life of Chief Yonaguska written by William E. Bird, former Dean and President of Western Carolina University.
The addition to the William Holland Thomas Collection, contains originals and photocopies of letters. Booklets on a variety of subjects, including secession from the Union by South Carolina and various compromises in which Thomas was involved.
The bulk of the addition is compromised of legal documents.
